Book lovers can pick up a bargain at a new second-hand bookshop – while helping animals in need.

The RSPCA North Staffordshire branch has opened its own book store next door to its Hanley charity shop.

As well as a huge range of fiction and non-fiction titles, the RSPCA New Chapters Bookshop also stocks a selection of vintage vinyl.

The idea for the new venture came about after the charity’s shops in Hanley and Cheadle accrued a huge amount of books that they were unable to properly display and sell.

Branch manager Patrick Vasey said: “We had so many books we were stockpiling, particularly in Cheadle, so we came up with the idea of opening our own bookshop so we could display the quality stock we’ve got.

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“The unit next to our Hanley shop was empty and we managed to negotiate a good rate. It has taken around 10 months to get opened up, which has been frustrating, but it has been worth it. We are delighted to welcome our first customers.”

All the books on sale at the shop have been donated, and Patrick managed to source the shelves and furniture from online auction sites and social media.

Branch manager Patrick Vasey at the RSPCA New Chapters Bookshop in Hanley

There is a comfortable seating area where customers can take a pew and have a look at the books before they buy.

Patrick said: “The overall look and feel of the shop itself is just right and the quality of the stock is outstanding. The atmosphere is very relaxed and informal.

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“Customers have really welcomed this venture, saying that it fills a void of independent bookshops in the local area.”

Volunteer Irene Craig was working in the shop on its opening day. The 76-year-old book lover, from Porthill, said: “The shop is wonderful. Book readers do go to charity shops but there’s always quite a limited range – we’ve got such a big selection.

“It’s like a bargain basement for books. I wouldn’t be able to walk past the shop.”

Stock is refreshed every day, and donations can be taken into the shop.

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Sales were brisk on opening day, and customers welcomed the new venture. Martin McGonigle, aged 53, from Stoke, said: “It’s really good to have a shop like this in the city centre, we don’t have anywhere that deals in second-hand books. I’m pleasantly surprised by the wide selection they have.”

Patrick is now looking for new volunteers with a love of books to help staff the shop, which is open Monday to Saturday from 9am until 4.30pm. If you can help call 01782 207779.